The Byzantine Jewel of Paros
For over 1500 years, Paros has honoured the Dormition of the Theotokos at the church of Panagia Ekatontapyliani. This monument, located in Parikia, is one of the oldest and most important examples of Byzantine ecclesiastical architecture in Greece.
History and Architecture
According to tradition, the church was founded by Saint Constantine and Saint Helen. The original structure was rebuilt by Justinian, acquiring its magnificent form. Despite the damage it sustained over the centuries, the restoration work by Anastasios Orlandos (1959-1966) restored the temple to its Justinian form. Inside, the iconostasis is dominated by icons of the Virgin Mary, the Pantocrator (Almighty), and the Dormition, 17th-century works donated by Prince Nicholas Mavrogenes.
Celebrating 15 August
Religious ceremonies reach their zenith on 15 August (Dekapentavgoustos) in an atmosphere profound reverence. That afternoon, the procession of the sacred icon and the epitaph through the streets of Parikia draws a multitude of faithful and tourists.
The Climax of the Panigyri Traditional Festival
In the evening, festivities become spectacular. Fireworks illuminate the sky, while the locals light red flares on their fishing boats, creating a unique atmosphere in the harbour. The sounds of ship horns and music signal the start of the glendi celebration, where dancers in traditional costumes swirl to the rhythms of the island.
Ekatontapyliani is more than a church. It is the spiritual heart of the island, uniting history, faith, and tradition into a unique summer experience.
History and Architecture
According to tradition, the church was founded by Saint Constantine and Saint Helen. The original structure was rebuilt by Justinian, acquiring its magnificent form. Despite the damage it sustained over the centuries, the restoration work by Anastasios Orlandos (1959-1966) restored the temple to its Justinian form. Inside, the iconostasis is dominated by icons of the Virgin Mary, the Pantocrator (Almighty), and the Dormition, 17th-century works donated by Prince Nicholas Mavrogenes.
Celebrating 15 August
Religious ceremonies reach their zenith on 15 August (Dekapentavgoustos) in an atmosphere profound reverence. That afternoon, the procession of the sacred icon and the epitaph through the streets of Parikia draws a multitude of faithful and tourists.
The Climax of the Panigyri Traditional Festival
In the evening, festivities become spectacular. Fireworks illuminate the sky, while the locals light red flares on their fishing boats, creating a unique atmosphere in the harbour. The sounds of ship horns and music signal the start of the glendi celebration, where dancers in traditional costumes swirl to the rhythms of the island.
Ekatontapyliani is more than a church. It is the spiritual heart of the island, uniting history, faith, and tradition into a unique summer experience.
